Embracing Sexual Wellness
A Guide for Women Over 45
In today’s modern world, we often complicate the subject of sex. Place the words "Sex and Menopause," into an online search engine and expect the resulting information to confuse and overwhelm. Also, by the age of 45+, we have carried around concepts and beliefs from childhood. Many of these thoughts no longer serve at this life stage.
As midlife women with another possible 50+ years left on the planet, we cannot turn to our mothers and grandmothers to ask for sex advice. We are the first generation to live through this new era of sexual activity midlife and beyond. It is up to us to explore and then pass on our findings to the generations to come.
Sexual wellness is a vital aspect of holistic well-being, regardless of age. As women enter their midlife years and beyond, they often experience various changes in their bodies and sexuality. However, these changes need not be a barrier to fulfilling and satisfying intimate relationships. In this article, we will explore some key aspects of sexual wellness and provide guidance on how women over 45 can embrace their sexuality with confidence and pleasure.
Understanding Changes in Sexual Health
As women age, they experience several physical and hormonal changes that can impact their sexual health. Menopause, for instance, brings about a decline in estrogen levels, leading to vaginal dryness, reduced libido, and changes in sexual response in most women - not all. It's important to recognize that these changes are normal and part of the natural aging process. Open communication with your partner and healthcare provider can help address any concerns you may be experiencing.
Prioritizing Self-Care and Emotional Well-being
Taking care of your emotional well-being is crucial for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling sex life. Engaging in activities that bring you joy, managing stress, and nurturing meaningful relationships can greatly enhance your overall sexual wellness. Fun and sex simply go together. Whether you are a new couple or married for 30+ years, laughter is happiness.
The feel-good sex hormones endorphins and oxytocin allow the body to relax and may also stave off anxiety and depression. When you prioritize fun and playfulness in your intimate moments, you create a positive and lighthearted atmosphere that can enhance your sexual experiences.
Lovemaking can simply be a time to hold hands, reach for a kiss or peck on the cheek, brush past each other, or send/write notes. Together, explore new ways to be sexual. Include teasing, spontaneity, and always something new, however small, the key is to make the effort.
Create date nights, weekends away, or impromptu meetings. Age is just a number and a figment of the imagination. If you think you can do it, you can! Embrace the excitement of new experiences and keep the flame of passion alive in your relationship. Remember, sex should be enjoyable, and by infusing fun and playfulness into your intimate moments, you can strengthen your connection and deepen your satisfaction.
Exploring self-pleasure, through masturbation, can be a powerful way to reconnect with your own body and desires. It allows you to learn about your unique pleasure points, preferences, and fantasies. Masturbation is a form of self-care that promotes self-discovery and self-love. By exploring your own pleasure, you can better communicate your desires to your partner and enhance your overall sexual experiences.
Incorporating joy, laughter, and fun into your intimate moments, along with exploring self-pleasure, can lead to a more fulfilling and exciting sex life. Lovemaking is not just about the end result; it's about the journey of connection, exploration, and shared pleasure. Embrace the power of fun and playfulness, both within yourself and with your partner, and watch your sexual experiences soar to new heights of enjoyment and intimacy.
Nurturing Intimate Relationships
Building and nurturing intimate connections with your partner can greatly contribute to your sexual satisfaction. Effective communication is key, as it allows you to express your desires, concerns, and boundaries openly. Communication creates connection. Engaging in activities that promote intimacy, such as cuddling, kissing, and non-sexual touch, can help foster emotional and physical connection, ultimately enhancing sexual intimacy.
Honoring your feelings is an important part of embracing your sexuality. Feel your feelings from your heart and allow yourself to tune into your innate powers of intuition. It's essential to be confident in discovering your illusions and disillusions about sex, recognizing that they are neither good nor bad, they just are.
Take time with this process and love yourself for your efforts. Choose to change the thoughts that no longer serve you. Remember, we live in the present moment, and what has gone before is not now. What will happen in the future, we do not know. Enjoy and appreciate what you have presently, it is the greatest gift.
The next step is to have the confidence to share your revelations with your partner. Choose your moment carefully and let them know that this may be hard for you. Opening up from a vulnerable place is a special time of trust and growth for both partners. It allows for deeper connection and understanding.
Communication is the bridge that creates a connection between you and your partner. When you communicate openly and honestly, sharing your desires and concerns, you foster a stronger emotional bond. This openness and vulnerability can lead to increased trust, intimacy, and mutual growth.
Exploring New Sexual Horizons
As you enter this stage of life, it can be an opportune time to explore new sexual horizons and discover what brings you pleasure. Every woman's journey is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to sexuality. Consider trying new sexual techniques, and positions, or incorporating sex toys into your intimate experiences. Openly discussing fantasies, desires, and boundaries with your partner can lead to exciting discoveries and increased satisfaction.
Seeking Professional Support
If you're facing persistent sexual challenges or struggling to find sexual fulfillment, seeking professional support can be immensely beneficial. Sex therapists or counselors who specialize in working with midlife women can offer guidance, support, and practical strategies tailored to your specific needs.
You Are You
Sex is amazing when you are you. Be confident knowing that you are enough just as you are - including all your wrinkles. Be proud to wear your badges of honor, each telling a story of a life well-lived.
When you are positive in body, mind, and soul, you carry an unmistakable air that turns heads no matter your age. With assuredness, you know what makes you feel sexy. Unfortunately, it is easy to arrive at midlife not knowing who you are or what you like, creating a lack of confidence for the next stage.
To activate and empower your sensuality, make time to be sensuously sensibly selfish. It can be as simple as spending time exploring your own body as it is today. Love your human temple on a regular basis—it has served you so far.
You deserve a fulfilling and pleasurable sex life, and with the right knowledge, communication, and self-discovery, you can achieve just that. Embrace your sexuality with confidence, and enjoy the journey of sexual exploration and growth that lies ahead.
Sex is not a complicated puzzle to solve; it is an expression of your authentic self. Embrace your individuality, celebrate your sensuality, and inspire future generations to do the same.